Credits: information and photographs © Sanyasi Lohar (e-mailed 1-4-14)
The six large panels were specially designed to adorn homes at Bishnubati village. They depict of Santal myths known to the local population.
In order to realize these original works, Sanyasi Lohar trained 6 village artisans since 2012. Twenty more participants were involved in the project.
The inauguration on 27 March 2014 was done by Dilip Mitra, Associate Professor of Painting, Kala Bhavana (Art Academy of Visva-Bharati University), Santiniketan.
It was an occasion to celebrate for many visitors from neighbouring villages and Santiniketan. Members of the Santal community expressed their pride and happiness about seeing their life depicted in such an artistic manner.
Background information
Sanyasi Lohar (*1972) obtained his Diploma and Post-Diploma from Kala Bhavana in 2001. This institution plays a special role in the artistic and social development of West Bengal and beyond:
Santiniketan is in many ways a pioneering step in the field of education and rural reconstruction. Located in the heart of nature amongst Hindu, Muslim, and Santali villages which were in ‘serious decline’ despite a rich cultural heritage, the school, from almost its beginning aimed to combine education with a sense of obligation towards the larger civic community. – Santiniketan – UNESCO World Heritage Centre
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To locate the Museum of Santal Culture in Bishnubati village (near Santiniketan) on the map seen below, open by clicking on the left button:
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